Hours spent on bending over, pulling up stubborn weeds, and battling their relentless growth often feel like a never-ending cycle.

However, local gardening expert Chris Ware from Climbing Wild Gardeners suggested that the solution to this age-old problem may be simpler than we think; and it might not require as many hours of hard work.

"With ground cover plants, you're not just decorating your garden-you're giving it a natural defense against weeds," Ware explained. "By forming a dense canopy over the soil, ground cover plants block sunlight and prevent weed seeds from sprouting."

When properly selected, ground cover plants form a dense, protective canopy that not only enhances the beauty of your but also prevents from sprouting by blocking sunlight from reaching the soil.

As Chris pointed out, certain varieties of ground cover are particularly effective in keeping weeds at bay throughout the year.

"Glandora prostrata, also known as 'Heavenly Blue', is a hardy evergreen that offers great weed suppression while maintaining a lush, green look all year round," he shared.

This plant is particularly well-suited for well-draining loamy or sandy soils, providing the perfect balance of beauty and functionality.

For gardens with heavier soils, Chris suggests considering alternatives like Bergenia purpurascens or Rhododendron Bloombux.

"These plants will still serve the same purpose, but you'll need to raise the bed or adjust for the more water-retentive soil type," he advised.

Ground cover plants offer far more than just weed control, as they protect soil from erosion, improve moisture retention, and even provide shelter for wildlife.

The beauty of these plants is that once they are established, they need very little care, making them a practical, eco-friendly, and cost-effective solution for any garden.

The expert also stressed the importance of tailoring your plant choice to your garden's unique conditions.

"It's crucial to understand your soil type and sun exposure before selecting your ground cover," he suggested.

"The right plant selection can transform your garden into a low-maintenance, weed-free haven."

With the right ground cover plants, your garden can remain lush and weed-free year-round, saving you time and effort.